Aqua c EV180 with Eheim 1262 - Please help

Hello

I've been reading this site in regards to the EV180 with the upgrade of a Eheim 1262 (900ghp). After hearing the opinions I decided to give it a try. First, I should tell you my set up. In november 2006 I upgraded a 55 gallon mixed reef into an AGA 120 gallon with dual overflow. I have a DIY 30 gallon sump divided into return, skimmer and refugium (approx 13 gal). I originally ran with setup the EV180 with a mag 7. I was pretty happy with the results, once the skimmer broke in. I get a decent amount of smelly dark green skimmate, but I decided to upgrade because it seemed that my skimmate production was inconsistent. A couple of days ago, I broke down and cleaned the skimmer to install the 1262. Immediately after turning the pump on, it was too much for the skimmer. Water was overflowing the collection cup no matter how I adjusted the air or gate value. To remedy this, I installed a ball valve to cut back a bit on the flow (85-90% flow) - with success. Now my water level is just below the black box with full air valve open. Since, it seems that my skimmer is going through the whole break in process again (lots of microbubbles, not much foam). Now it did this everytime I would clean the tower, but usually for less than 24 hrs (not counting the initial break in). So here are my thoughts/questions.

1. Is it possible that be increasing the flow through the skimmer box, that now there is not enough time for the bubbles to interact with the water and form foam?

2. Did most of you guys who use the 1262 with this skimmer have to cut it back a bit (my skimmer bottom is about 8 inches above the pump)? I didn't see that mentioned very much.

3. Is this extended break in period, because of the new pump? I wouldn't think that it would have much of an effect. Perhaps, having my hands in the water did.

4. Is it possible that this skimmer initial production of dark green skimmate is halted because there just isn't much organics in the water anymore?? Is it normal for skimmate production to vary, almost cycle. I feel that I have a pretty high bio load and organics shouldn't be a problem (various corals, snowflake, 4 tangs, 1 clown, 1 copper butterfly, 1 niger and various inverts). My nitrates have been steady at 15-20 - I'm waiting for my DSB and refugium to fully kick in. All inhabitants seem very happy.

Anyhow, I would appreciate anyone's help or experience with the EV180 and Eheim 1262. I am starting to feel like I wasted my money, especially since there is a mag 7 sitting on the floor laughing at me.

Thanks

Greg

 

does anyone have any advice. the eheim has been running now for 4 days, without foam production. is this new pump, causing a whole new break in period like the initial??

 

I don't know much about Eheim pumps. I have the Aquac EV180 and is powere by a Mag 7 as that is enough power! That being said, I wouldn't try to go too much stronger than 700GPH as you will run the risk of decreased efficiency and also if you try to slow down the pump, you are putting more strain on the pump thus possibly decreasing the life of your pump and increasing heat brought on by this alteration.